VICTORVILLE, CA – A 45-year-old Victorville man has been charged with murder and attempted murder after allegedly shooting three family members, killing two women and critically injuring a third victim, San Bernardino County authorities announced.
Sydney Smith was arrested following the Friday night shooting in the 13000 block of Sundown Road that claimed the lives of Ayanna Smith, 48, of Cerritos, and Annaya Scott, 26, of Cerritos. A 28-year-old Redlands man remains hospitalized with gunshot wounds.
San Bernardino County Sheriff’s deputies responded to reports of an assault with a deadly weapon and multiple shooting victims at approximately 8:58 p.m. Friday, according to the sheriff’s department.
First responders discovered all three victims suffering from gunshot wounds at the scene. Emergency medical personnel transported the victims to local hospitals, where both women were pronounced dead. The male victim’s condition was not disclosed by authorities.
Homicide detectives assumed control of the investigation and quickly identified Sydney Smith as a suspect. Investigators determined Smith was related to the victims, though the exact family relationship was not specified by authorities.
Smith was taken into custody on suspicion of murder and attempted murder charges. He is currently being held without bail at the High Desert Detention Center.
The motive for the shooting remains under investigation, and detectives have not released additional details about the circumstances leading to the violence.
Anyone with information regarding the case is encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Homicide Detail at 909-890-4904. Anonymous tips can be submitted through We-Tip at 1-800-78-CRIME or online at wetip.com.
